University of Louisiana at Lafayette vs South Louisiana Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings, but University of Louisiana at Lafayette comes closer — median earnings $47,089 against a $54,120 total, vs $31,432 at South Louisiana Community College. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Louisiana at Lafayette | South Louisiana Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $13,530 | $12,564 |
| Total net cost | $54,120 | $50,256 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $47,089 | $31,432 |
| Median debt | $22,902 | $11,000 |
| Payback | — | — |
| 20-year net return | -$79,540 | -$388,816 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Louisiana at Lafayette vs South Louisiana Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Louisiana at Lafayette or South Louisiana Community College a better value?
University of Louisiana at Lafayette comes closer, but neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings — the field you study decides it here more than the school.
Which is cheaper, University of Louisiana at Lafayette or South Louisiana Community College?
South Louisiana Community College: $12,564/yr net price after aid versus $13,530/yr at University of Louisiana at Lafayette — a difference of $966 a year, or about $3,864 over four years.
Do University of Louisiana at Lafayette or South Louisiana Community College graduates earn more?
University of Louisiana at Lafayette graduates earn a median $47,089 ten years after entry, versus $31,432 at South Louisiana Community College — a $15,657 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.